Jardin du Luxembourg: The Garden of Love

For a romantic stroll, there is nothing like the Garden of Luxemburg, (Jardin du Luxembourg). Located in the heart of Paris, steps away from the Panthéon, the 17th Century gardens feature beautiful beds of flowers, large green spaces, fountains and statues. Parisians of all ages patronize the space on their lunch break, for walks, and sport activities.

Founded in 1612 by Marie de Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France and regent of King Louis XIII of France, writers throughout the ages have found inspiration in the garden’s peaceful alleys – famous poet Gerard de Nerval even entitled one of his pieces “An alley in the Luxemburg Garden”. Make sure to walk around the The Medici Fountain (La fontaine Médicis) in the northeastern part of the park. One of the park’s numerous treasures, it was built in 1630 by Marie de Medici. The northwestern section of the garden has another feel: tennis courts are there, as well as chess boards that are used throughout the year.

The gardens are also home to the French Senate, housed in the breath-taking Palais du Luxembourg. Built in 1615, the palace is a marvel of architecture. Visits are organized one Saturday per month between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. To register call +33 (0)1.44.54.19.49.

Right next to the Senate is the Musée du Luxembourg. A must-see for art lovers, the Museum showcases unique art pieces from the European Renaissance.
If you are there between May and October, a small detour by les Orangeries in the northwestern section of the park is highly recommended. The Orangeries are a series of spaces dedicated to exhibiting exotic plants from the Mediterranean region.